Memphis, Tennessee – A potentially impactful winter storm is increasingly likely to affect the Mid-South from Friday through Sunday, bringing a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain along with bitter cold temperatures. Travel disruptions, power outages, and prolonged sub-freezing conditions are becoming more likely as confidence grows in the overall storm setup.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, wintry precipitation could begin as early as Friday and persist through the weekend. While exact precipitation types and totals remain uncertain, probabilities show a significant risk for impactful winter weather across West Tennessee, Northeast Arkansas, and North Mississippi. Portions of the region carry a 40 to 60 percent chance of exceeding three inches of snow, while the threat for more than a quarter-inch of ice is highest across North Mississippi and southern sections of the Mid-South.
The freezing rain risk is especially concerning, as ice accumulations could lead to downed trees, power lines, and widespread power outages. Snow and sleet farther north would also create hazardous road conditions on I-40, I-55, I-22, and major secondary routes. Once precipitation ends, dangerously cold air is expected to settle in, with temperatures remaining below freezing for 72 hours or longer in some locations.
Residents are urged to prepare now by limiting unnecessary travel this weekend, ensuring emergency supplies are stocked, and having multiple ways to receive warnings. Officials stress that additional updates and advisories are likely as the storm draws closer and details become clearer.
